摘要 |
The invention relates to the apparatus for and a method of sensing impact between a vehicle and an object and particularly between a pedestrian and the front bumper of a vehicle. An optical fiber array extends along the bumper and the array has sensors spaced along the bumper. A sensor comprises light loss areas spaced peripherally and axially on a fiber. An impact distorts the sensors, modulating light transmitted along the fiber or fibers. A signal is produced which is processed by a sign al processor and an output signal generated. The output signal is used to actua te a safety device, such as elevating the vehicle hood to increase clearance between hood and engine, to reduce the severity of any injuries.
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